WebNovelNava Katz68.02%

Chapter 285

"In theory." Rohan and I had both texted our family and close friends last night about the plan so they didn't wake up and have a heart attack about our fake engagement.

Esther had replied to my text with Don't get hurt, idiot child. She wouldn't have bothered if she didn't care.

"Okay," Mom said.

"Really? You're not mad?"

"Well, I was worn out after yelling at three different news vans to stay out of my azaleas, but your father is in his element. He's been out there for half an hour, all 'no comment' and 'we love our daughter and ask you to respect her privacy.'"

"I'm sorry you're being harassed." For someone I'd spent so long at odds with, this protective instinct to keep her safe was weird but welcome.

"I'm sorry you're being vilified. Remember that no one who matters believes any of the awful things they're saying about you."

I blotted my damp eyes. "Thanks. I love you."

"I love you, too. Be careful. Hug your brother for me and tell him to phone."

"Will do."